What Does "Severe Disability" Mean?

To be considered severe under SSA guidelines, your condition must:

• Significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities
• Last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death
• Prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) — i.e., earning above a certain monthly threshold

This definition applies nationwide, including in Oklahoma.

Basic Work Activities Affected by Severe Disabilities

SSA looks at whether your disability interferes with tasks like:

• Walking, standing, or lifting
• Speaking or hearing
• Understanding and following instructions
• Interacting with others
• Concentrating and remembering details
• Managing time and completing tasks

If your condition significantly affects even one of these areas, it may be considered severe.

Common Severe Disabilities Recognized by the SSA

While not a complete list, these types of conditions are often accepted as severe:

Physical Disabilities

• Arthritis and joint disorders
• Heart disease
• Back injuries and spinal disorders
• Neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s

Mental Health Conditions

• Major depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Severe anxiety disorders

Chronic Illnesses

• Cancer
• Diabetes complications
• Kidney failure

Your condition doesn’t have to be on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments (Blue Book), but it must be well-documented and limit your ability to work.

How the SSA Evaluates Disability Severity in Oklahoma

The SSA uses a five-step process to evaluate every claim:

1. Are you working? If you earn above the SGA limit, your claim may be denied.
2. Is your condition severe? It must interfere with work-related activities.
3. Is it on the SSA’s list? If it is, and you meet all criteria, you may be approved automatically.
4. Can you do your past work? SSA checks if you can return to previous employment.
5. Can you do other work? If not, based on your condition, age, and education, you may qualify.